Maine gun control proposal meets threshold for ballot

Published 11:33 am, Thursday, February 18, 2016

Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap said Thursday that the referendum supporters obtained 65,821 valid signatures, exceeding the minimum threshold by more than 4,500.

The proposal would require a background check before a firearm sale or transfer between individuals. The parties would be required to meet at a licensed firearm dealer, who would conduct a background check on the gun recipient and complete the sale.

There are exceptions, including transfers between family members. The proposal will go to voters unless Maine lawmakers approve it.